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More moon scenes

Another oddly wind-less and cloud-less night just after the full moon. Couldn’t pass up the opportunity for more moonlight photography. This night I wanted to capture some shadows on the snow and since the moon was lower in the sky that would be much easier. There’s a state park nearby with plenty of trees and wide open spaces.

ISO 100, 50mm, 40 sec., f/5

The recent snowstorm had pretty high winds from the north so almost all the trees (and any other vertical surface) have snow plastered against one side. I was able to find perspectives that gave me the shadows I wanted along with the snow on the trees, a nice contrast on the dark bark.

ISO 100, 15mm, 40 sec., f/3.2

Of course the evergreen trees collected their share of snow, rendering a classical Christmas view to a generally deciduous state park. Yes, this is moon light – see the stars in the sky? Digital sensors just keep on collecting light as long as the shutter is open, something our eyes don’t do. Even dark images will have a surprising amount of detail that can be brought out by increasing the exposure in post-processing.

ISO 100, 14mm, 40 sec., f/3.2

This is my favorite. Not because it’s such a great composition but because the tree seems to be pointing out that constellation in the upper left corner. That is Orion, guardian of the winter night sky, always high overhead around Christmas. Being able to see Orion is yet another indication this is a moonlit shot.

All you need is a sturdy tripod, a shutter that will stay open for many seconds, and a little patience. And some warm clothes.